In a landmark decision, Thailand’s Supreme Administrative Court has annulled a 1975 Education Ministry regulation that strictly controlled student hairstyles, deeming it unconstitutional and outdated.
Background of the Regulation
The original regulation, based on a 1972 military junta order, mandated specific hairstyles for students:
- Male Students: Required to have short haircuts, with beards and mustaches prohibited.
- Female Students: Not allowed to grow their hair below their ears or wear makeup.
These rules aimed to promote discipline and good behavior among students.
Court’s Rationale
The court found that the regulation violated individual freedoms protected by the constitution and was misaligned with contemporary societal norms. It also conflicted with the Child Protection Act of 2003 and negatively impacted students’ well-being.
Impact on Schools
With the regulation annulled, the authority to set hairstyle policies now rests with individual schools. Some institutions may involve parents in decision-making, while others might delegate the responsibility to school executives or joint committees of teachers and parents.
Student Activism
The ruling is a significant victory for student activist groups like “Bad Student,” which have long campaigned for greater personal freedoms and educational reforms in Thailand. Despite the legal change, concerns persist about enforcement, as some schools may continue to impose traditional hairstyle norms.
This decision marks a progressive shift in Thailand’s educational policies, aligning them more closely with individual rights and modern societal values.
